Narcissism is a term that is often thrown around in popular culture, but what does it really mean to be narcissistic? The term refers to a personality trait characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissism exists on a spectrum, and while some people may exhibit mild signs of narcissism, others may have a full-blown personality disorder.

If you suspect that you may be narcissistic, asking the following questions may help you gauge the extent of your self-obsession:.

Question 1: Are you preoccupied with fantasies of power, success, or attractiveness?

Narcissists often have grandiose fantasies about their own power, success, and attractiveness. They may daydream about becoming a celebrity, a world leader, or a top athlete.

They may believe that they are destined for greatness and feel entitled to special treatment from others.

Question 2: Do you feel entitled to special treatment from others?

Narcissists believe that they are special and deserve special treatment from others.

They may expect people to treat them differently because of their perceived superiority, and they may get angry or upset if they don’t get the attention they feel entitled to.

Question 3: Do you lack empathy for others?

Narcissists often lack empathy for others. They may be insensitive to the feelings of others and have a hard time understanding other people’s perspectives.

They may feign empathy to manipulate others, but underneath it all, they are only concerned with their own needs and desires.

Question 4: Do you have a sense of entitlement?

Narcissists often have a sense of entitlement. They may feel that they deserve things that they have not earned, and they may expect others to do things for them without any effort on their own part.

They may flout rules and regulations that they feel do not apply to them.

Question 5: Do you exploit others to achieve your own goals?

Narcissists may exploit others to achieve their own goals. They may use others to get what they want without any regard for the harm they cause to others. They may manipulate people emotionally or financially to achieve their own ends.

Question 6: Do you have an exaggerated sense of self-esteem?

Narcissists have an exaggerated sense of self-esteem. They may believe that they are better than others and feel that they are entitled to adulation and praise.

They may become angry or hostile if they feel that they are not being appreciated or respected enough.

Question 7: Do you feel threatened by criticism or rejection?

Narcissists may feel threatened by criticism or rejection. They may become defensive or angry if they feel that their self-image is being challenged.

They may lash out at others who criticize them or reject them and seek revenge against those who they feel have wronged them.

If you answered yes to most of these questions, you may have a higher than average level of narcissism. However, it is important to remember that everyone has some degree of narcissism and that it is not always pathological.

If your self-obsession is causing problems in your relationships or your daily life, you may want to seek help from a mental health professional.